Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a delightful and fun dish to prepare during the festive season. This recipe is not just about the delicious taste; it’s also about the joy of creating something that looks beautiful on your holiday table. The cheesy goodness is perfect for gatherings, and it’s a simple recipe that anyone can make, even if you’re not an experienced cook. Plus, the aroma of freshly baked bread filled with gooey cheese is sure to impress family and friends!
How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Ingredients:
- 13 ounce canned refrigerator pizza dough
- Parchment paper (for lining baking sheet)
- 6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 large egg (+ 1 tablespoon water for egg wash)
- 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh basil (finely chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- 1 jar marinara and/or pesto (for dipping)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the dough into around 30 equal squares and slice the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces (about 1 inch).
- Place a piece of mozzarella in each dough square, then roll it into a ball, sealing the edges with your hands.
- Arrange the dough balls on the baking sheet, seam side down, in the shape of a tree, making sure they are touching each other.
- In a small bowl, mix the egg and water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush this mixture onto each dough ball.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the bread is baking, melt the butter in the microwave. Stir in half of the parmesan cheese along with the grated garlic and herbs.
- Once the bread is out of the oven, brush the garlic herb mixture onto the rolls and sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top.
- Serve immediately with marinara and/or pesto for dipping.
How to Serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Serve this delightful bread as an appetizer or a fun side dish at your holiday gatherings. It’s great for sharing, so place it in the center of the table and let everyone pull off their own cheesy bite. Don’t forget the marinara and pesto for dipping, as they add even more flavor!
How to Store Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
If you have any leftovers, cool the bread completely first. Then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave it for a quick snack.
Tips to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
- Make sure the dough balls are well-sealed to prevent cheese from leaking out during baking.
- Feel free to mix and match herbs based on your preference or what you have on hand.
- For an extra touch, you can add cooked spinach or sun-dried tomatoes inside the dough balls for added flavor.
Variation
You can customize the filling by using different types of cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick. Additionally, try adding cooked bacon bits or sausage for a meaty version!
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of canned?
Yes, you can use homemade pizza dough if you prefer. Just make sure it’s similar in consistency to canned dough.
How long does it take to prepare the dough?
Preparing the dough and assembling the balls takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on your speed.
Can I freeze the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking.
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Ingredients
Dough and Cheese Filling
- 13 ounces canned refrigerator pizza dough
- 6-7 pieces mozzarella cheese sticks sliced into 30 bite-sized pieces
- 1 large egg plus 1 tablespoon water for egg wash
- 3 tablespoons butter melted
Toppings and Herbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese divided
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh rosemary finely chopped
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh basil finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic grated
Dipping Sauce
- 1 jar marinara and/or pesto for dipping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the dough into around 30 equal squares and slice the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces (about 1 inch).
- Place a piece of mozzarella in each dough square, then roll it into a ball, sealing the edges with your hands.
- Arrange the dough balls on the baking sheet, seam side down, in the shape of a tree, making sure they are touching each other.
Egg Wash and Baking
- In a small bowl, mix the egg and water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush this mixture onto each dough ball.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes or until golden brown.
Finishing Touches
- While the bread is baking, melt the butter in the microwave. Stir in half of the parmesan cheese along with the grated garlic and herbs.
- Once the bread is out of the oven, brush the garlic herb mixture onto the rolls and sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top.
- Serve immediately with marinara and/or pesto for dipping.
